This fall, aspiring artists, writers, actors, and creative-minded teens will once again have a chance to come together and meet with some industry professionals right here in Murfreesboro at the Fourth Annual Express Yourself Arts Conference on October 26th.

Interested high school students can apply through their school, or visit www.rutherfordbep.org/eyac or readtosucceed.org/eyac.htm to sign up. Applications are due September 16.

The Express Yourself Arts Conference is also seeking partnerships with area businesses for this year’s conference. This year’s theme is “Art is the Movement” and will be held at Patterson Park Community Center in Murfreesboro.

“EYAC is a unique opportunity for high school students in Rutherford County,” said Laura Beth Jackson, conference director. “They not only learn about on local the arts community in Rutherford County, but also practical tools on how to pursue a career in what they love.”

The conference offers high school students a variety of master arts workshops and round table discussions with professional artists that speak to students wanting to pursue an arts-based career.

The conference is administered by the Business Education Partnership, but is produced in cooperation with Read To Succeed, Murfreesboro Rock School, and Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation. The conference is tuition-free and open to all 9^th-12^th grade students in Rutherford County’s public, private, and home schools.

Jackson says the conference is an unmatched opportunity to educate young people on arts-related careers and industries, and to show how they can use creativity in whatever career path they choose.

“Opportunities like this allow creative young people in Rutherford County to meet adults who are using their talents to make a living, lead a fulfilling life, and make a difference, by their art” says Jackson.

This year’s committed business partners include local youth and arts oriented businesses and media outlets. The conference is still in need of financial support and volunteers.

For more information on joining “Art is the Movement,” contact Laura Beth Jackson at ljackson@rutherfordchamber.org, or learn more by visiting EYAC on Facebook or www.rutherfordbep.org/eyac.